Chelsea star was ‘the most gifted player of his generation’ but is wasted at Stamford Bridge

There was much expected from Gael Kakuta when the France under-21 international made the transfer from Lens to Chelsea in 2007, but things have faded since.

There was controversy surrounding the move as the Blues were accused of tapping up the youngster and as result of Fifa finding the club guilty of such a violation, a two-transfer window ban was put on Kakuta.

Guy Hillion – a highly respected scout at Stamford Bridge – was one of those that initially saw the talent that the forward possessed and has said that the 22-year-old has wasted his time in west London since.

“Frankly, I don’t know why he put an end to his stay with the Dutch club,” Hillion was quoted by the Daily Star when asked why Kakuta cut short his loan spell with Vitesse Arnhem.

“It is a huge waste. I already said it and I repeat it, he is the most gifted player of his generation.

“He could have been exceptional.

“But talent is not enough. When you pile on failures and there is trouble in any club where you played, you have to ask the right questions and question yourself.

“You can’t manage what is on his mind, his entourage or his family.”

Kakuta has also spent time with Fulham, Bolton Wanderers and Dijon in the past three years, but has failed to do enough to make an impact on the first team at the Bridge.

Since arriving from France six-and-a-half years ago the attacker has played just 16 times for the club and now cuts something of a forgotten figure.